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Nigeria has reported 20,838 new cases of HIV/AIDS between January and March 2026, with Lagos State and Benue State accounting for the highest number of infections, according to data from the National Data Repository.
Lagos, Benue Top Infection List
Lagos State recorded 2,298 new infections, making it the most affected state during the period. Benue State followed closely with 1,949 cases. Other states with significant figures include Akwa Ibom State (1,159), Rivers State (1,137), and Anambra State (1,013).
In northern Nigeria, Kaduna State reported 842 new infections, while Kano State recorded 476 cases.
Additional figures show rising infections in Delta State (803), Oyo State (763), Ogun State (751), Plateau State (662), Imo State (640), and Nasarawa State (615).
The Federal Capital Territory recorded 579 infections, while Abia State and Edo State reported 527 and 512 cases respectively. Lower figures were observed in Ebonyi State (253), Gombe State (252), and Borno State (238). The least affected states include Ekiti State (129), Sokoto State (110), and Yobe State (100).
Federal Government Announces $346 Million Health Intervention
In response to the rising numbers, the Federal Government has approved $346 million in co-financing for 2026 to support interventions targeting HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this during the national rollout of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable designed to prevent HIV infection.
According to the minister, the funding—already approved for inclusion in the 2026 national budget—will be used to improve access to medical supplies, strengthen laboratory surveillance systems, procure essential reagents, expand primary healthcare services, and enhance financial protection for Nigerians.
Push for Sustainable Health Financing
Muhammad Ali Pate emphasized Nigeria’s growing shift toward domestic healthcare funding in the face of declining global financial support. He noted that innovation, improved efficiency, and the adoption of new medical solutions like Lenacapavir will play a critical role in reducing the burden of HIV and other infectious diseases across the country.
Health experts say sustained investment and public awareness will be essential to reversing the current trend and achieving long-term epidemic control.
